#BoldBeliefDevotional by Paul Natekin
Key Bible Verse:
“For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that people are without excuse.” — Romans 1:20 (NIV)
Ever looked at the stars and wondered how it all began? Or maybe you’ve questioned if there’s a purpose to everything around you. It’s natural to have these thoughts, and today we’re going to explore why believing in a Creator makes sense, even in a world full of scientific ideas.
Apologetic Insight:
(from Greek ἀπολογία, ‘speaking in defense’) Defending and explaining faith with reason and evidence.
Scientists now widely agree that the universe had a beginning, which points to the existence of a Beginner or Creator. Hebrews 3:4 states, “For every house is built by someone, but God is the builder of everything.” This aligns with what William Lane Craig argues in his cosmological argument, emphasizing that everything that begins to exist has a cause, and the universe began to exist, thus implying a cause outside of the universe itself—God.
Moreover, the universe’s fine-tuning for life on earth is incredibly precise, as noted in Romans 1:20 and Psalm 19:1-4. John Lennox highlights this in his discussions about intelligent design, suggesting that the precision required for life points directly to an intelligent Designer.
When it comes to evolution, the fossil records don’t show the expected transitional forms between species. J. Warner Wallace, a former cold-case detective turned apologist, points out the lack of these crucial links, challenging the evolutionary narrative. Similarly, Norman Geisler discusses the problem of mutations, noting that most are harmful, not beneficial, which contradicts the evolutionary assumption of positive mutations leading to new species.
The second law of thermodynamics, which states that systems naturally degenerate, further complicates the evolutionary theory. As Hank Hanegraaff explains, this law suggests that the universe is running down, not evolving upward, which aligns with a creationist perspective.
Lastly, evolutionists often make claims about mutations within species (microevolution) proving macroevolution. However, as Greg Koukl points out, this is a leap of logic. Mutations within species do not prove that entirely new species can emerge from these mutations.
Encouragement & Application:
It’s okay to question and seek answers. Doubts can lead to deeper faith. Spend time in nature and reflect on the complexity and beauty around you. Engage with Scripture regularly, and don’t hesitate to ask questions within your faith community. Remember, believing in creation doesn’t mean dismissing science; it means understanding the universe as a creation of an intelligent and loving God.
Reflection Questions:
- How does the idea of a finely-tuned universe affect your understanding of God’s role as a Creator?
- What steps can you take to explore the evidence for creation and intelligent design further?
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for the wonder of Your creation. Help us to see Your handiwork in the world around us and to trust in Your eternal power and divine nature. Guide us as we seek to understand more about You and Your plan for us. In Jesus’ name, Amen.